When the computer first start, the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) checks the keyboard for a special key press, to signify you wish to enter the BIOS setup. Typically you have about 2 seconds to press the key. Many systems will display a brief message showing the key needed to enter setup. For example:

Press F2 to enter Setup

If you see the Windows logo or Windows progress bar, it is too late to enter BIOS setup.

Common keys used to enter setup include F1, F2, F10, Esc, Del, Ctrl-Alt-Del, and a few others. Using the key shown on-screen is the best choice if seen, otherwise use our guide below to get the right key, or you can just try each of the keys on each boot cycle to find the right one.

The timing of the key press can be tricky. We recommend watching for the keyboard reset where the three keyboard LEDs flicker on then off. At that point tap the key you need for Setup and keep taping it on-off at about once per second until the BIOS indicates it is going into setup or the setup screen appears.

In some cases the BIOS may display a keyboard error (which is not the case) and/or displays a message to press a specific key to enter setup. Press that key.